Is it the Program or the Interpreter? Modeling the Influence of Program Characteristics and Interpreter Attributes on Visitor Outcomes

Abstract

This study modeled the relative influence of program characteristics and interpreter attributes on three visitor outcomes (satisfaction, visitor experience and appreciation, and behavioral intentions) using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The three resulting models accounted for between 10% and 27% (R2) of the variance in the outcomes. The models suggest that both program and interpreter characteristics, as well as other unaccounted for factors, influence these outcomes. We discuss the implications of the findings for researchers and practitioners, calling for greater attention to both interpreter attributes and context.